High School
While in high school, you should study the physical sciences. You should take physics and chemistry courses that include laboratory work. Fire science demands some knowledge of hydraulics, physics, and chemistry. For example, laying out sprinkler systems requires skills that are introduced in high school mechanical drawing courses and computer-aided design classes. Algebra and geometry are also recommended, as well as English and writing courses.
Postsecondary Training
Two-year, postsecondary fire-technology programs are now available at more than 100 technical institutes and community colleges. These programs provide in-depth education in the fire-science specialization for people seeking to work for industries, institutions, or government as fire safety technicians. These programs are also available to members of fire departments or related fire specialists.
Courses in these programs include physics and hydraulics as they apply to pump and nozzle pressures. Fundamentals of chemistry are taught to help students understand chemical methods of extinguishing fires and the chemistry of materials and combustion. Communications skills are also emphasized.
Typical courses in the first year of a two-year program include firefighting tactics and strategy, fire-protection equipment and alarm systems, fundamentals of fire suppression, introductory fire technology, chemistry (especially combustion and chemistry of materials), mathematics, and communications skills.
Second-year courses may include building construction for fire protection, hazardous materials, fire administration, industrial-fire protection, applied physics, introduction to fire prevention, and applied economics.
Apprenticeships offer another training path for aspiring fire safety technicians. Students with a high school diploma or its equivalent can enter a fire department apprenticeship program. These programs run from three to four years, combining intensive on-the-job training with active firefighting service, and include related study in the science and theory of firefighting. These apprenticeship programs may or may not be union-sponsored. Even after completing an apprenticeship program, fire safety technicians seeking to advance to the level of supervisor or inspector must continue to study. Part-time courses are available in community colleges or technical institutes.
Newly hired technicians generally receive on-the-job orientation and training before they are allowed to work without close supervision.
Certification
The National Association of Safety Professionals offers a fire prevention specialist certificate program that covers topics such as alarm and detection systems and components, fire safety codes, workplace fire safety, and various agents used in fire extinguishing systems. Visit https://www.naspweb.com/course/fire-prevention-specialist-fps for more information. Additionally, colleges and universities offer certificate programs in fire science, fire safety, firefighting, and related fields. Contact schools in your area to learn about available options.
Other Education or Training
Like most professional workers in high-technology careers, fire safety technicians must continue to study during their careers to keep up with new developments in their field. Improved fire detection and prevention instruments, equipment, and methods for making materials fireproof are being developed all the time. The National Fire Protection Association offers seminars, self-guided online courses, on-site seminars, and webinars. Recent offerings included Fire Sprinkler System Types and Application, Code Requirements for Interior Wall and Ceiling Finishes, and Installation of Sprinkler Systems. The American Society of Safety Professionals, National Association of Safety Professionals, National Fire Sprinkler Association, and the Society of Fire Protection Engineers also provide continuing education opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.
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